If you’re a fan of nostalgic flavors with a homemade touch, then these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies will steal your heart. Imagine the warmth of a cottagecore bakery, the rustic charm of Cafe Cottagecore, and the simple joy of baking dessert for family—these cookies embody all that and more. Inspired by the beloved Brown Sugar Pop Tarts, this recipe is a delightful twist on classic tart cookies, featuring a rich brown sugar filling encased in a soft, buttery cookie shell.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a cozy tea party or looking for a comforting dessert for family, these cookies fit the bill.
- Homemade Nostalgia: Inspired by childhood-favorite brown sugar pop tarts but made from scratch.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The perfect balance of brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- Easy to Make: No complicated techniques—just simple, delicious baking.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Fits beautifully into the cafe cottagecore aesthetic with its rustic and charming appearance.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Brown Sugar Filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Dash of cinnamon (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Brown Sugar Filling
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Shape and Fill the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into small rectangles or circles, depending on your preference.
- Spoon a small amount of the brown sugar filling onto half of the dough cutouts.
- Place the remaining dough cutouts on top and press the edges gently to seal.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges for a classic tart cookie look.
Step 4: Bake
- Place the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely before glazing.
Step 5: Add the Glaze
- Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
- Drizzle over the cooled cookies and let the glaze set before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 2g

Tips for the Perfect Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
- Chill the Dough: This prevents spreading and helps maintain the cookie’s shape.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause leaks during baking.
- Seal the Edges Well: Use a fork to crimp the edges for an authentic look and to prevent filling spillage.
- Let the Glaze Set: Allow at least 10-15 minutes for the glaze to firm up before serving.
Variations and Additions
- Maple Twist: Add a teaspoon of maple extract to the filling for a maple-infused delight.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the brown sugar filling.
- Fruity Version: Spread a thin layer of apple butter under the brown sugar filling for extra flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of a vanilla glaze, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies.
Pairing Ideas
- Serve with a warm cup of cinnamon tea for a full cottagecore bakery experience.
- Enjoy with a cold glass of milk for a classic mm cookies treat.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
History and Inspiration Behind the Recipe
These cookies draw inspiration from traditional Jul Kaka, a Scandinavian spiced cookie enjoyed during the holidays. The use of brown sugar and cinnamon evokes warm and cozy flavors, making them perfect for a cafe cottagecore setting. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just because, they bring a touch of nostalgia and homemade goodness to any moment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! Store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature or freeze them for up to 2 months.
2. Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of homemade dough?
While possible, the homemade dough adds a softer, more flavorful texture compared to store-bought crust.
3. How do I prevent the filling from oozing out?
Make sure to seal the edges well and avoid overfilling the cookies.
4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
5. Can I double the batch?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and follow the same steps.
Conclusion
These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies bring together the best of both worlds—rich brown sugar filling, a soft and buttery exterior, and a delightful glaze on top. Whether you’re creating a cottagecore bakery vibe, searching for the perfect dessert for family, or indulging in mm cookies, this recipe will satisfy your cravings. Try it today and enjoy the simple, rustic charm of homemade treats!
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